Rodney “Rod” Kidd is an entrepreneur with a background in technology and logistics.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I’m Rodney Kidd, a community leader, business owner, and advocate for a stronger District 8. I’m 53 years old and have lived in San Antonio for 13 years. I studied media and business at the University of Incarnate Word and began my career at GTE, once the largest utility company in America.
I have built successful businesses in tech and logistics, creating jobs and opportunities for others. I also serve as Senior Vice President of Operations at Kinected Coworking, helping businesses and entrepreneurs thrive. I am one of you not a politician, lawyer or lobbyist like some of my opponents. I have had successes and failures called life.
My top priority is cleaning up District 8 by managing homelessness with real solutions, enforcing a strict no loitering or camping ordinance, providing jobs and skills training, and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. I will lower property taxes, establish District 8 as the music capital of San Antonio with a state-of-the-art amphitheater, and expand parks and green spaces for families and seniors. I will also work to expand animal adoption programs and shelter access for pets in need of a home. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous District 8.
List any previous experience in government or participation on local boards, commissions, or neighborhood associations.
I was elected as a Bexar County precinct chair and currently hold an appointed precinct chair position, actively working to engage voters and strengthen civic participation. I serve on the San Antonio Urban League advisory board, where I advocate for economic empowerment, social justice, and community development.
I also manage media and public relations for the Fair Contracting Coalition, which promotes fair business practices and opportunities for local contractors. In addition, as Senior Vice President of Operations at Kinected Coworking, I support local entrepreneurs and businesses.
These roles have given me valuable experience in community advocacy, public policy, and leadership. My background in government engagement, grassroots organizing, and public relations has prepared me to be a strong, results-driven leader for District 8. I am committed to using my experience and passion for service to bring real solutions to the San Antonio City Council.
In the city’s 2024-2025 budget survey, residents ranked homelessness, streets, housing and animal care services among their top concerns for the city to address. Which issues do you consider a top concern for District 8 and how would you work to address them in your first 100 days?
Homelessness is one of the biggest challenges facing District 8, and it requires real solutions, not just enforcement. I will work to establish a city-county mental health hospital, deploy specialty mental health units, and expand the SAPD Mental Health Unit to get people the care they need. I will also enforce a no loitering or camping ordinance while providing pathways to housing, treatment, and job training.
Infrastructure must be improved to keep up with District 8’s rapid growth. I will push for better road maintenance, safer streets, and expanded public transit options. I will also work to lower property taxes, ensuring residents can afford to stay in their homes.
Animal welfare is also a priority. I will expand access to pet adoption and improve shelter resources for stray and abandoned animals, ensuring more pets find safe and loving homes.
Additionally, I want to make District 8 the music capital of San Antonio by building a state-of-the-art amphitheater for live performances and broadcasts. I will also expand parks and green spaces to provide safer, more enjoyable public spaces for families and seniors.
In my first 100 days, I will ensure my office is accessible 24/7 to help residents navigate city services, get assistance, and have their voices heard.
In a crowded field of council candidates, what differentiates you from the others?
I bring a business mindset, a deep understanding of public service, and a track record of leadership. I have built successful businesses in tech and logistics, worked for GTE, and served as an elected and appointed precinct chair, engaging with voters and strengthening civic participation. As Senior Vice President of Operations at Kinected Coworking, I help businesses and entrepreneurs succeed.
I don’t just talk about problems—I solve them. I will tackle homelessness with real solutions, enforce a strict no loitering or camping ordinance, provide job training for the unemployed, and support entrepreneurs and small businesses. My plan for economic growth includes lowering property taxes, making District 8 the music capital of San Antonio, and improving parks and green spaces for families and seniors. I will also expand pet adoption programs and shelter access to protect our animals.
Most importantly, I will make sure residents have direct access to their council office 24/7. My commitment to accountability, accessibility, and action sets me apart. I will bring real leadership and real results to District 8.
If elected, how do you plan to solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
I believe leadership starts with listening. That’s why my office will be available 24/7 to help residents get assistance, connect with city services, and make their voices heard.
I will host regular town halls and community meetings in every part of District 8, making sure residents have a direct line to their city government. I will also create a Community Advisory Council made up of neighborhood leaders, business owners, and community advocates to ensure every decision reflects the needs of the district.
Additionally, I will launch an online platform where residents can submit concerns, track issues, and receive real-time updates on projects and policies.
My goal is to be the most accessible, transparent, and responsive council member District 8 has ever had. Your voice matters, and I will always be here to listen and help.
Read more about Rodney “Rod” Kidd
District 8 candidates hurl accusations in fiery San Antonio City Council debate
